When Ames was a freshman at Desert Vista High School in Ahwatukee, she was immediately placed under the tutelage of junior Alex DePriest. Ames said DePriest was like a big sister to her and helped her get through her freshman season.
“She was very loud and outspoken. You could hear her from a mile away,” Ames said. “We became close right away. She was always taking me to practice, and she would give me a ride home from her practice for everything.”
What Ames vividly remembers about DePriest is how she treated those around her. It's something she will never forget and try to recreate in her life.
“It didn't matter who you were or how old you were. She was kind to everyone,” Ames said.
Sadly, their friendship didn't last long. On April 3, 2018, DePriest passed away due to complications from diabetes.
“When she passed away, I just had a ribbon in my hair because I had a tournament that weekend,” Ames said. “I didn't really think about it too much. I just thought of it and decided to wear a pink ribbon. I didn't know if it would stick in every game. But then, when I played without a pink ribbon, It ended up being like I had never seen him play in a game or tournament.”
Ames always knew he had to honor his friend in some way, and when asked why pink, he replied that it was DePriest's favorite color.
Ames will always cherish the memories he made and the time he spent with DePriest.
“The people she met and touched were far greater than the years of her life,” Ames said.
